What Is the Best Type of Roofing Material for My Garage?
Similar to your house, a garage is a structure that should be built to last and provide adequate protection for your vehicles, tools, bicycles, motorcycle, or anything else you wish to keep in it. Garages may be constructed of a combination of wood, siding, and brick, and they usually have a concrete floor. Although you may not have put much thought into your garage's roof, it is essential to make sure it is made with durable materials to endure the elements that Mother Nature may throw its way. At Blue Sky Builders, Inc., we can help you explore your options for choosing roofing material when remodeling or constructing a new garage.
Considering Wear and Tear
The Chicagoland area is known for its extreme weather throughout the seasons. A roof on any building must be able to withstand rain, snow, sleet, hail, heat, humidity, and sub-zero temperatures. Many people store their prized possessions in their garages, such as antique cars, expensive tools, and high-end lawn mowers or tractors. That is why it is so important to carefully consider the garage's construction, including what the roof is made of. Nobody wants the roof collapsing or caving in after accumulation of heavy snow after a blizzard. Roofing material needs to be strong enough to take a beating.
It is also worth noting that the materials you select for your garage roof may depend on the pitch used for the roof. There are a variety of styles of high-pitched garage roofs, including gambrels, gable roofs, and hip roofs. Here is a look at some of the possible roofing materials that can be used for garages, including their advantages and disadvantages:
- Asphalt shingles: The most popular residential roofing material in the United States, asphalt shingles are durable and cost-effective. They typically last 20 to 25 years before needing to be replaced, and they can match your house's shingles for a seamless appearance.
- Metal shingles: Metal roofing is very durable and reliable. However, it can be very expensive and somewhat noisy during a thunderstorm.
- Concrete or clay tiles: While these are popular roofing materials for many homes in Europe, clay and concrete tiles are also available in North America. These materials can be heavy, adding weight to your garage roof. However, they are durable, fire-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing.
- Wood/cedar shingles: Wooden shingles can give a garage a unique look compared to other roofing options, but they require more maintenance than other materials and wear out more quickly in wet weather.
- Plastic tiles: Also known as composite shingles, plastic tiles are highly durable and fairly inexpensive. They provide airtight insulation and can improve the lifespan of the garage.
Contact a Downers Grove Garage Roofing Specialist
As an Illinois homeowner, you want high-quality construction for your home, so you should expect nothing less for your garage, whether it is attached or detached. It is important to use the safest and most durable material for your garage roof so it can stand the test of time and preserve the valuable items you keep in it. The skilled garage professionals at Blue Sky Builders, Inc. have more than 40 years of building experience. Call our Chicago area garage builders today at 630-852-8485 for a free estimate.